Polk Co. IAGenWeb

ARISS, THOMAS - Of the firm of Kahler & Co., dealers in boots and shoes. Was born in Canada, on the 23d of June, 1842, and there was raised and educated. While young he learned his present business and followed it in that country until July, 1863, when he came to this city. Was admitted into the firm and is now successfully carrying on business under the firm name of Kahler & Co. He was married in this city April 7, 1880, to Miss Bryan, daughter of A. J. Bryan. ASH, ELI-Among the early settlers of Polk county who have been identified with its growth and development none deserves a more extensive notice than Eli Ash, who was born in Wood county, Virginia, June 4, 1817. While yet an infant his parents removed to Ohio and located near Gallipolis, where young Ash was raised and educated. When eighteen years of age he learned the brick making trade, which he followed three years; his health becoming impaired he concluded to change his occupation, and soon after learned the cabinet trade, which he followed until 1842, when he engaged in school teaching and building by times. In November, 1845, he came to this State, and located in Van Buren county, and to this county April 21, 1848, and bought a claim of Dr. Jas. Campbell on section 34, township 39, which he still owns, being a valuable tract of seventy-five acres, adjoining the city limits, and is destined to become the chosen location for residences of the capital city. After locating here Mr. Ash followed building principally until 1872, when he partially retired from the more laborious occupation of his life to enjoy a well-earned competency. In manners Mr. Ash is unostentatious and reserved, yet social and courteous. In business affairs he possesses rare judgment and extensive practical knowledge, and his wise counsel is often sought by those more actively engaged. September 3, 1843, he married Miss Surrepta Campbell, of Scotch-Irish origin. They have seven children living: Elizabeth (wife of C. 1). Pulford, of Clinton, Ia.), James M., George T., John A., Eli F., Eliza J. (wife of Mark Skinner), and Josephine; have lost three: Charles, Burt, and Ida Rozatha.